The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, says Nigeria is on the path to becoming a stronger and more prosperous nation as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Yilwatda, in an Independence Day message, said the country’s journey since independence had been marked by challenges but also by resilience, unity and an enduring belief in Nigeria’s potential.
He said the administration of President Bola Tinubu inherited a difficult economic situation and had embarked on major reforms, including the removal of the petrol subsidy, foreign-exchange reforms, measures to improve domestic revenue mobilisation, and monetary and fiscal policy changes.
According to Yilwatda, the reforms have imposed significant short-term sacrifices on Nigerians but are beginning to produce measurable signs of macroeconomic stabilisation.
He cited World Bank figures indicating that Nigeria’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 4.2 per cent in the first half of 2026, while the country’s gross foreign-exchange reserves stood at $51.9 billion at the end of July 2026.
The APC chairman also pointed to developments in the energy sector, investment, the digital economy and social protection as signs that the reform programme is moving beyond economic stabilisation towards structural transformation.
“We acknowledge the progress that has been recorded and, more importantly, recognise that the work is not finished. Economic stabilisation will now translate more rapidly into improved household incomes, employment, food security and greater opportunities for our people,” he said.
Yilwatda said the ultimate goal of the reforms should be an economy capable of creating jobs, expanding opportunities for young Nigerians, supporting businesses, improving infrastructure and raising the standard of living.
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He stressed that democracy must ultimately translate into improved living conditions for citizens, adding that political leadership should remain accountable to the people.
The APC national chairman also urged Nigerians to actively participate in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He called on citizens to assess the records, policies, programmes and plans of political parties and candidates before making their choices at the polls.
Yilwatda said Nigeria possesses the human resources, natural resources and entrepreneurial energy needed to build a stronger and more prosperous country.
He pledged that the APC would continue to work with the Federal Government, state governments, elected representatives and Nigerians across the country to consolidate what he described as the gains of the ongoing reforms.
“On this 66th Independence Anniversary, let us celebrate Nigeria, believe in Nigeria and continue to work together for the Nigeria we all desire. Our best days are still ahead of us,” he said.
“The task before us is to ensure that the reforms and sacrifices of today translate into lasting prosperity and opportunity for generations yet unborn.” The party’s National Chairman said.
